Non-Religious Pastoral Care : A Practical Guide

A discussion of good non-religious pastoral care practice includes the beliefs and values on which it is founded, its person-centred approach, required skills and capabilities and ethical considerations. This book, which is packed full of useful pedagogical features including a glossary, case-studies, questions for discussion, and practical step-by-step guides of pastoral care best practice in a range of settings (including prisons, hospitals, hospices, higher education and the military), will be required reading for anyone engaged in providing pastoral care.

This ground-breaking book is a guide to non-religious pastoral care practice in healthcare, prisons, education, and the armed forces in the UK. It brings a new perspective to our understanding of care services traditionally offered by chaplaincy departments. The book charts the progress from a Christian to a multi-faith and on to a fully inclusive care service. Compelling evidence is presented showing strong and broad support for non-religious pastoral care provision.

A practical guide, it outlines the beliefs and values on which this care is founded and its person-centred approach. The role, skills, competencies, and training requirements for non-religious pastoral carers are described. Institutions need to consider their policy responses to the rapid development of non-religious pastoral care provision. A number of policy aspects are explored, including understanding service users’ needs, recruitment, and communications.

This book is essential reading for non-religious pastoral carers and those thinking of entering this field. Chaplains and institutional managers responsible for chaplaincy or spiritual care departments will find this book gives them valuable insights into the positive contribution non-religious pastoral carers can make in building stronger, more inclusive pastoral, spiritual, and religious care services.